The largest-ever Gulfood (February 19-23) being held in Dubai will see 20 top-tier Lithuanian food manufacturers showcasing their range of sustainably produced food products made according to the highest standards of European Union.

Lithuania is bringing ‘You are what you E.A.T’ to the event, where ‘EAT’ stands for the products that are of ‘e’xceptional quality, made with the help of ‘a’dvanced technology, while maintaining centuries old traditions to suit the ‘t’astes of all in the world.

Lithuania is home to a booming startup community (700+ companies), a country that has a deeply ingrained appreciation for open data and developed collaboration between researchers and entrepreneurs, a statement said.

A country of under 3 million people, Lithuania has a solid track record of innovation – from co-creating one of the world’s largest scientific lasers and building nano satellites to the first Lithuanian-made tractor powered by cow dung.

Lithuanian companies are using advanced technologies like IT solutions for monitoring crop growth, freeze drying and 3D food printing as well as developing Agtech and building SOFA (Sustainable Organic Food Architecture), while relying on seasonal, organic goods to produce healthy and nutritional food products.

As such, it can be a perfect partner to countries looking to diversify their sources of not just agri-food products but also innovative and healthy FMCGs, a statement said.

Vytenis Tomkus, Vice Minister of Agriculture in Lithuania, is leading a high-level delegation from the European nation to Dubai for the exhibition showcasing innovative food industry solutions.

“We are proud to present a massive range of Lithuanian food products at Gulfood 2024. This will enhance our opportunities to take Lithuanian food products to Arab countries and wider global markets. The agriculture and food industries are key economic sectors for Lithuania, with long-standing production traditions and growing export levels.

“Lithuanian agri-food products are exported to nearly 160 countries, reaching more than three-fourths of the world markets. The northeastern European country has much potential in providing sustainably produced quality food for global markets.

“The increasing demand for organic products has encouraged Lithuania to focus on organic farming. Today, 8.1% of Lithuania’s agricultural land is certified organic, and this is set to grow to 13$ by 2027,” he added.

Among the 20 Gulfood participants, Amber Pasta stands out as the country’s largest pasta producer. Additionally, breakfast manufacturers Naujasis Nevėžis and Cerera Foods are present; the latter exports 92% of its production to 43 countries.

Fast-growing factory Varėnos Pienelis, condiment producer Daumantai LT, and healthy confectionery producer Golski LT are among the other top companies participating. Meanwhile, Lithuania has introduced Chazz, the world’s first adults-only potato chips manufacturer, at the Gulfood.

Šarūnas Celiešius, Director of LitFOOD, a Lithuania’s Food Export Promotion Agency, said: “Our food products are known for cleaner sources and are produced using sustainable solutions and advanced technologies in the agri-food industry.

“With sustainability in mind, our farmers and food producers are also increasingly deploying technologies that make agriculture and food production more environmentally friendly as well as sustainable.

“Our food producers use advanced technologies like freeze drying, 3D printing, and vertical farming to produce nutrient-rich products that have a range of advantages, including customization, long shelf life, and reduced environmental impact.” – TradeArabia News Service